Baked Chicken Breasts
Directions
- 1Brine the chicken (if not pre-brined): Mix lukewarm water and salt, add cold water to cool, then add chicken breasts and let sit for 15 minutes or up to 6 hours. Rinse and pat dry.
- 2Preheat oven to 450°F.
- 3Place chicken breasts in a baking dish, brush with butter or olive oil, then sprinkle with a mixture of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- 4Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. You can broil for the last 3-5 minutes for crispier chicken.
- 5Remove from oven, transfer to a plate, loosely tent with foil, and let rest for 5-10 minutes.
- 6Serve warm and enjoy!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon melted butter or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
Equipment
9×13″ Baking DishInstant-Read ThermometerMixing Bowls
Tips
- Brining chicken is a must for juicy results. It can be done in 15 minutes or up to 6 hours.
- Use a cooking thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to lock in juices.
- Customize with your favorite seasonings (Italian seasoning, Cajun seasoning, Za'atar, taco seasoning, etc.).
- For crispier chicken, broil for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking time.
- Don't use glass dishes; the maximum recommended temperature is 425°F. Use metal baking sheets instead.
- Store cooked chicken in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. It is recommended to shred, dice or slice the chicken before freezing for easier use.
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